Can a custom app be published on the Shopify App Store if it requires configuration?

Shopify Apps

Topic summary

  • Whether a customizable, vendor-configured Shopify app can be listed on the App Store and how to handle billing outside Shopify.

  • Context: The app personalizes printed products, is tailored per client, and requires vendor-side configuration after installation. It’s already installed for 150+ client stores.

  • Guidance shared: Publishing is possible if a developer account is set up and the app passes Shopify’s review. The app should meet all requirements, provide clear setup instructions, and offer support to handle the necessary configuration.

  • External billing: Suggested to use a third-party payment processor (e.g., Stripe). Ensure regulatory compliance, secure payment methods, and a process for disputes/chargebacks.

  • Status: No definitive confirmation or policy citation from Shopify; the reply offers practical guidance but not authoritative approval. Open points include exact eligibility and compliance specifics for listing a non–self-service, configuration-dependent app.

Summarized with AI on January 14. AI used: gpt-5.
1

Hello everyone,

We’ve been developing a tool for the personalization of printed products. We always tailor our tool to our clients’ specifications. We have created a custom app for Shopify, which we install for our clients every time (over 150 clients are using our app in their stores). Can we publish this app on the Shopify App Store, even though we need to do some configuration on our end to make it operational?

Additionally, what do we need to do to bill clients outside of Shopify?

2

Hi @panwuem ,
This is Theodore from PageFly - Shopify Page Builder App.
For solving the problem about the The App Need To Be Self-Service, let’s try this solution:
You can publish a custom Shopify app requiring additional configuration to the Shopify App Store by creating a developer account and getting app review approval, though you’ll need a third-party payment processor like Stripe to bill clients outside of Shopify. When publishing, ensure your app meets requirements, has clear instructions, and provides support. When billing externally, comply with regulations, offer secure payment methods, and have dispute processes in place.

I’ll be so happy if my suggestion can help to solve your problem. If you have any further questions, please feel free to tell me.
Best regards,
Theodore | PageFly